New Zealand's only purpose-built convention facility is right in the heart of the city, linked by a pedestrian airbridge to the city's Town Hall performing arts centre.

Opened in March 1997, the new halls of the Christchurch Convention Centre provide 1864 square metres of flat floor pillarless environment for conventions, exhibitions and spectacular gala dinner events.

The Centre's modern design incorporates a spectacular glass walled foyer, a main hall with an eight metre high ceiling and capacity to seat 2,200 delegates theatre-style or 1,350 for a gala dinner. Seven breakout rooms on the first floor can accomodate between 30 and 150 delegates.

The versatility of the Christchurch Convention Centre for hosting large international events is enhanced by the proximity of the Christchurch Performing Arts Centre, which includes a 2,584 seat auditorium and the 1,006 seat James Hay Theatre, as well as a further 3 meeting rooms that seat 250-500 delegates each.